Gini Wijnaldum insists he has “no regrets” about signing for relegation-haunted Newcastle United.

The Dutchman is on the brink of an unwanted entry on his CV just 12 months after winning the title with PSV Eindhoven.

Wijnaldum’s fine early season form has evaporated in the second half of the campaign with the Holland international particularly poor away from home.

But when asked about his feelings after swapping life at the top with PSV for a grim relegation battle, Wijnaldum told the Dutch media: “I knew it could be tough because they had a tough year last season, nevertheless I have made the decision last year to swap PSV for Newcastle and I still have no regrets.”

Wijnaldum also admitted that Newcastle players had let Steve McClaren down and had sympathy for the ex-Toon boss.

He said: “I am sorry. But that’s football.

“Players are not fired and that is sometimes unfair.

“Rafa Benitez is looking for the right balance and wants to play more compact.”

Wijnaldum was also asked about his future and whether he had an escape clause in his contract.

He said: “My role is indeed still a bit unclear but it is a very heavy situation, it is survival.

“Do I have a clause that I could get leave after relegation?

“I do not give information about what is in my contract.

“I do not think about the end of the season, I focus on the upcoming matches.

“The club is working hard to put everything in a row and I am confident that it will be okay.”